Beauty

Could cannabis extract be the next big thing in skincare?

CBD decoded

By
Shree Vrinda April 29, 2019

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There's no question that CBD is the buzzy wellness product of the moment. Spas have introduced CBD facials, beauty companies are rushing to release lotions with CBD or hemp oils in their formulas. And everyone wants to get their hands on some (or any form of!) CBD. But even though it's infiltrating pretty much every corner of the wellness world, CBD is still a little confusing—especially when it comes to figuring out the right way to use it.

First things first. What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, it’s a chemical compound from the cannabis plant. Our skin has native receptors for cannabis extracts (cannabidiol / 'CBD' and hemp are the best known examples), which means they’re quickly recognised by the body.

Where does hemp come in to all this?

When people talk about hemp oil, they're referring to oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, but there is no actual CBD in hemp oil. However, Hemp oil is packed with healthy fats and often appears in beauty products for its moisturizing benefits.

What are the benefits of CBD?

Anti inflammatory, reduced risk of diabetes and obesity, a lower body mass index, even a smaller waist circumference (now we know why Kim Kardashian is obsessed with the product), in addition to reduced risk of cancer and numerous skin benefits; these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this wonder product.

Delineating on CBD’s beauty benefits: Our skin has the highest amount and concentration of CB2 receptors in the body, when applied as an infused lotion, serum, oil, the antioxidant is more powerful than vitamins E and C. CBD oil can repair damage from free radicals like UV rays and environmental pollutants, from acne to psoriasis; CBD minimizes signs of ageing, addresses acne by regulating oil production in addition to promoting faster healing of damaged skin.

Where can you get it?

Although CBD is not yet officially available in India, it will be manufactured and available within the coming year says The Council of Scientific and Internal Research (CSIR). But if you are travelling or living abroad, make sure to stock up on this wonder oil.